Mazda CX-30 Crowned Best Family Car in Reader Survey
Choosing the right family car is a significant decision, impacting daily life profoundly. It needs to be practical, offer great value, and be well-equipped, but also a vehicle that brings joy. Beyond the practicalities, family cars are integral to creating memories, shaping childhoods and family experiences across generations.
A recent comprehensive survey of car owners has identified the most reliable family car, and the top spot goes to a Japanese contender, surpassing traditional luxury brands. Respected automotive publication Auto Express polled its readers about the vehicles they own to determine Britain’s best family car.
Mazda CX-30 Takes the Lead
The winning vehicle is the Mazda CX-30, a compact SUV that has been available in the UK since 2020. In the Auto Express rankings, it achieved an impressive score of 93.37 percent out of 100. Owners specifically lauded the car for its enjoyable driving experience, alongside its renowned reliability and durability.
While Japanese manufacturers frequently feature in such lists, with Toyota and Honda often taking the top accolades, this year Mazda’s CX-30 has emerged as a standout performer. The publication noted that the CX-30 small SUV is proving to be as durable for owners as it is engaging to drive.
Although the Toyota Aygo X secured the top position on the overall ‘most reliable car’ scoreboard, the Mazda CX-30’s second-place finish and its first-place standing in the family car category highlight its strong appeal to consumers.
Tesla and BMW Also Score Highly
Following closely in second place was the Tesla Model 3 Mk 1, achieving a score of 92.28 percent. This electric vehicle, available since 2019, was previously recognized as the best car to own in the UK for 2026 and garnered high marks across all assessment categories.
Third place was awarded to the Mk3 BMW 1 Series, with a score of 91.79 percent. This model, also on the market since 2019, received commendations for its reliability, user-friendly infotainment system, and overall driving dynamics.
Impact of Cost of Living on Car Ownership
The findings of the Auto Express Driver Power survey arrive at a critical time for many UK households grappling with the escalating cost of living. As budgets tighten, the number of cars owned by households is being re-evaluated.
According to temporary car insurance provider Tempcover, approximately 40 percent of car owners have reduced the number of vehicles they maintain. Their research, based on a survey of 2,000 adults, indicated that downsizing from two or more cars to a single vehicle could lead to savings of around £1,500.
Paul Gilshan, CEO of Tempcover, commented on the findings, stating that their research suggests running a single car is proving to be a practical solution for many. He explained, “Our research shows that for households that have downsized, one car works well. People are better off financially, it fits how they’re working and living now, and they’re more intentional about when they use it – and it’s better for the environment.”
Gilshan further elaborated on the evolving mindset towards car usage: “In many ways, these households are already practising a form of car sharing – coordinating access, prioritising who needs it most, making it work around everyone’s schedule. The car is more of a shared resource rather than a personal fixture, and that mindset is only going to grow.”
